The AeroVision Drone Lab, a drone training and innovation facility, named as iFLY (Innovation in Flight Laboratory for Youth) sponsored by the AICTE in collaboration with AVPL, was inaugurated at Manav Rachna University on July 25. The lab is aimed at creating a skilled, future-ready workforce in drone technology and services. Set up as a robust, interdisciplinary hub, the iFLY lab will cater to students of multiple BTech specializations, Computer Science, Mechanical, Robotics, Electronics, and Artificial Intelligence, preparing them for emerging career roles such as drone pilots, service technicians, and battery system experts. Applications will span across the vital sectors of agriculture, surveillance, and disaster management.
Prof. (Dr.) Anil Sahasrabudhe, Chairman of the National Educational Technology Forum (NETF), Chairman of National Board of Accreditation (NBA), Chairman EC-National Assessment & Accreditation Council (NAAC), inaugurated the facility in the august presence of Prof. T.G. Sitharam, Chairman, AICTE, and senior dignitaries from Manav Rachna Educational Institutions.
Speaking on the occasion Prof Sahasrabudhe said:“iFLY is more than a training lab. It embodies where academic excellence meets national need. With drones playing an increasingly critical role in agriculture, infrastructure, defence, and emergency response, this initiative by Manav Rachna sets the right tone for what technical education must look like in 2025 and beyond.This generation needs immersive, hands-on exposure to the technologies that will shape India’s future.”
“We are living in a time where emerging technologies such as AI, machine learning, blockchain, robotics, quantum computing, biotechnology are transforming industries, redefining job roles, and revolutionizing how we live and work. Lifelong learning and continuous upskilling are not optional, they are essential,” added Prof. T.G. Sitharam, Chairman, AICTE.
The lab has been established in partnership with AVPL, a company engaged in drone manufacturing, training, and AgriTech-based workforce development. The collaboration brings industry insight directly into the university ecosystem, ensuring students are exposed to current technologies, workflows, and certifications aligned with employment demands.
“Through iFLY, we are bringing drone innovation into the heart of higher education. Whether it’s mechanical, electronics, design, communication, or applications in agriculture and civil engineering, this lab immerses students in multidisciplinary, real-world learning.” said Rajive Gulati, AVPL.
Dr. Prashant Bhalla, President, MREI emphasized the broader vision behind iFLY ,“We see iFLY as the beginning of a knowledge ecosystem where innovation, skills, and industry come together. Our students will not only gain certifications for today’s job roles but also become contributors to how this industry evolves in India. At Manav Rachna, we believe in giving our engineers roots in strong fundamentals and wings to fly into future industries.”
Speaking about the university’s interdisciplinary approach, Dr. Amit Bhalla, Vice President, MREI, added, “The most powerful ideas are born where disciplines converge. Drones are not just flying machines, they are the confluence of mechanical systems, embedded intelligence, AI, and human insight. iFLY will help our students think beyond silos and approach problem-solving with a uniquely integrated mindset.”
Highlighting the academic and research edge the lab will bring, Prof. (Dr.) Deependra Kumar Jha, Vice Chancellor of Manav Rachna University, stated “iFLY will act as a platform for applied research, product development, and entrepreneurial incubation in drone services. From aerial analytics in agriculture to automated responses in disaster zones, the applications are limitless. Our focus is not only to create qualified professionals but also to ignite curiosity, innovation, and leadership in emerging technologies.”
